State Officials Recognize 32 Programs for Excellence in Energy and Environmental Education

May 6, 2019

BOSTON – At a State House ceremony, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Kathleen Theoharides today honored 32 energy and environmental education programs at Massachusetts schools and nonprofits as part of the 25th Annual Secretary’s Awards for Excellence in Energy and Environmental Education.

“As we work to address challenges like climate change, it is vitally important that we prepare the next generation to be responsible stewards of the Commonwealth’s environment,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Our administration is proud to recognize the outstanding educators who are working to engage students in hands-on educational programs while raising awareness of environmental issues.”

“The innovative environmental and energy educational programs honored today prepare students for academic and professional success and show them ways to make positive changes in their communities and schools,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “Thank you to all the schools and nonprofits that have incorporated environmental education in to their curriculum, helping to improve students’ problem-solving skills and create lifelong passions for science and the environment.”

Winners competed for $5,000 in awards, funded by the Massachusetts Environmental Trust with the intention to fund further environmental education initiatives at the schools. EEA solicited Excellence in Energy and Environmental Education Award nominations in early 2019. Schools and organizations that voluntarily incorporate environmental education into public or private school curricula are given priority.

“In order to teach the next generation the importance of protecting our natural resources, we need to get children outdoors and engaging with nature,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides. “The programs recognized today connect local environmental issues with STEM subjects, preparing students to both think critically and advocate for our environment.”

The project applications were scored by the Secretary’s Advisory Group on Energy and Environmental Education, a group of environmental educators from state agencies, non-profits, industry and academia.

Education Secretary James Peyser recognized the U.S. Department of Education (USED) Green Ribbon Schools awardees from Massachusetts, Boston Green Academy Horace Mann Charter School, Ipswich Middle-High School and Wellesley Public Schools. The award honors schools that are exemplary in reducing environmental impact and costs, improving the health and wellness of students and staff and providing effective environmental and sustainability education, which incorporates STEM, civic skills and green career pathways.

“The Green Ribbon Schools Award recognizes schools that reduce environmental impact; improve health and wellness of students and staff; and provide effective environmental and sustainability curriculum. We are very proud of the schools we are recognizing today for doing all of those things, and possibly sparking students’ interest in future careers in these fields,” saidEducation Secretary James Peyser.

“I am proud of the work these schools and educators have done to ensure that the next generation of environmental stewards are prepared for the road ahead,” said State Senator Anne Gobi (D-Spencer).

“This is a great program that allows our schools to provide environmental education with STEM,” said State Senator Dean Tran (R-Fitchburg). “The education and skills taught to the students will prepare them for a career in an industry that is on the rise.”

“Congratulations to Coach Sarah Johnson and the Fitchburg High School Envirothon Team for receiving Secretary Theoharides’ Award for Excellence in Energy and Environmental Affairs. Fitchburg High School was among a select group of schools to receive this honor,” said State Representative Stephen Hay (D-Fitchburg). “This prestigious award honors those whose efforts bring students, teachers and communities together to learn and act as environmental caretakers to protect wildlife habitat, encourage energy efficiency and reduce waste. Fitchburg is proud to be home to the green energy leaders of tomorrow.”